How to Get a Baby Swimming Lessons

Whether or not you own a pool, it's important for your children to know their way around the water. Start young if you can. Get your baby enrolled in swimming lessons and teach him good habits around the water that will last a lifetime.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Look for group swimming lessons. This will give you and your child a chance to meet new friends and make the lessons more exciting.

2. Learn everything about the swimming lessons before enrolling your baby. Sit in on a few sessions and make sure it's fun for the kids in the class. If any of the children are crying or afraid, consider another class.

3. Prepare to get wet. At this age, you will be encouraged to participate in the swimming lessons with your child. Your presence will reassure your baby. Keep the atmosphere light and fun and your baby will learn faster.

4. Check the water temperature—babies do not tolerate cold water. The ideal water temperature is 80 to 90 degrees F, depending on the air temperature.

5. Focus on safety. At this age, swimming lessons will teach you more than your baby how to be safe around the water.

Tips & Warnings

• Swimming instructors suggest starting your child in lessons at four to six months.
• Swimming lessons don't make your child completely safe in the water. Watch him the entire time he's swimming. Your child should never swim unattended.

Resources

• Find swimming lessons for your baby at Infant Swimming Resource.
• Buy swimming gear for your baby at Mother's Bliss.